Football star David Beckham and his wife Victoria are taking legal action over an article claiming their marriage was in trouble, their lawyers say.

They said the News of the World article "Posh and Becks on Rocks" was untrue and "caused considerable distress to both the couple and the family."

In a statement, the lawyers said the newspaper had not taken up an opportunity to apologise for the story.

The News of the World has not commented on the announcement.

The Beckhams' lawyers, Harbottle and Lewis, said: "David and Victoria Beckham today initiated legal proceedings against the News of the World in relation to an article published on Sunday 12 September 2004.

"The News of the World was given the opportunity to provide an apology but
have chosen not to respond to the couple's request."